3.13 STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, … STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS AND ... with...

SECTION 3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES, AND MITIGATION

3.13-1

3.13 STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS AND WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS

This section discusses existing federal regulations, management goals, and objectives that apply to the Steens

Mountain Wilderness Area, Wilderness Study Areas, and Wild and Scenic Rivers in or near the Analysis area.

It also analyzes the potential effects the project would have on the intrinsic wilderness and/or outstanding

resource values of each area covered by these special designations. While the Project would not directly

affect any lands protected by these special designations, the Project would have the potential to effect values

inherent to these specially designated areas.

3.13.1 Methodology

This section was prepared using information from a variety of sources, including:

Three Rivers Resource Management Plan.

Andrews Management Unit Resource Management Plan.

Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area Resource Management Plan.

Steens Mountain Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Plan.

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Master Plan.

Oregon BLM Wilderness Study Report, Volume I (1991).

H-8550-1 Interim Management Policy for Lands Under Wilderness Review (1995).

H-8560-1 Manual Handbook for Management of Designated Wilderness Areas (July 1988).

BLM Manual 8560 for Management of Designated Wilderness Areas (April 1983).

8561 Manual for Wilderness Management Plans.

8351 Manual for Wild and Scenic Rivers.

Wilderness Characteristics Inventory for the Proposed North Steens Transmission Line Route and

Alternative Routes (BLM-Burns District 2010).

43 CFR Part 6300.

43 CFR Part 8351.2.

Additional policy and procedural guidance was obtained from the following sources:

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended.

BLM National Environmental Policy Act Handbook (H-1790-1).

Land Use Planning Handbook ((H-1601-1).

This section assesses the temporary (short-term) effects resulting from the use of construction equipment, and

permanent (long-term) effects resulting from facility operation of the Proposed Action, Alternatives, and No

Action Alternative upon the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs), and Wild

and Scenic Rivers (WSRs). To analyze effects to values, this section draws from the analysis conducted for

other environmental subjects within this EIS to qualitatively and quantitatively describe how the geologic,

recreational, fisheries, wildlife, cultural, and historic resources within these special designations would be

affected. In addition, a GIS-based viewshed analysis was conducted to assess the potential for visual effects

NORTH STEENS TRANSMISSION LINE EIS ADMINISTRATIVE DRAFT JUNE 2010

3.13-2

from various project features, including turbine towers and transmission line poles, on scenic values in

particular. Due to the proximity of the project to the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, Wild and Scenic

Rivers, as well as Wilderness Study Areas, a five mile radius around project facilities was established to take

into account the potential for possible project effects such as noise and visual.. Five miles was chosen as the

Analysis area for this section as it consists of an area subject to foreground to middleground views of the

Project as defined by the BLMs VRM methodology and is the zone where changes are more noticeable and

are more likely to trigger public concern (BLM Manual 8410).

Where appropriate, mitigation or effect minimization measures have been identified to reduce or avoid

anticipated adverse effects resulting from construction and operation of the proposed project. Consistent with

BLM Manual 8560, mitigation of effects from projects that occur outside designated wilderness must not be

so restrictive as to preclude, or seriously impede, such activities.

The analysis in this section was informed by comments received from the public during the formal EIS

process. Several agency representatives, local organizations, and private citizens requested that EIS

investigate the potential effects of the North Steens Transmission Line Project and the Echanis Wind Energy

Project on designated the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, WSAs, and WSRs.

3.13.2 Affected Environment

The affected environment for this section includes the Analysis area as well as special designation areas

whose intrinsic wilderness and/or outstanding resource values may be affected by the proposed project. For

the purposes of this analysis, the Analysis area is defined as the five mile radius areas around project

facilities, including all improvements on the Echanis Wind Energy Project site and approximately five miles

of the proposed transmission line extending from the Echanis substation to the five mile radius boundary.

Due to the fact that no Wilderness Areas, WSAs, and WSRs are located within five miles of the alignments of

Alternative B (including the South Diamond Lane and Hog Wallow Route Options) or Alternative C, this

analysis has been limited to this Analysis area only.

Between 2006 and 2009, the BLM conducted a “Wilderness Characteristics Inventory for the Proposed North

Steens Transmission Line Route and Alternative Routes” (BLM-Burns 2010) which determined that the

transmission line alternatives would not extend through public lands that retain Wilderness characteristics.

While the project and its alternatives would not be directly located within any WSRs, Wilderness Areas, and

WSAs, the project has the potential to affect their value. It should be noted that no buffer zones are created

around wilderness areas to protect them from the influence of activities on adjacent land. The fact that non-

wilderness activities or uses can be seen or heard from areas within the wilderness does not, of itself, preclude

such activities or uses up to the boundary of the wilderness area. When activities (such as the Proposed

Action and Alternative Actions) are proposed, the BLM must identify the specific impacts upon wilderness

resources and upon public use of the wilderness area (BLM Manual 8560.19 Buffer Zones and Adjacent

Lands).

3.13.2.1 Wild and Scenic Rivers

Wild and Scenic Rivers

LEGISLATION, OBJECTIVES AND VALUES

The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 (Public Law 90-542; 16 USC

1271 et seq.) to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural cultural and recreational values in a free-

flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Under the Act, rivers are classified as

wild, scenic, or recreational. These categories are defined as follows:


3.13-3

Wild river areas – Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments and generally

inaccessible except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted.

These represent vestiges of primitive America.

Scenic river areas – Those rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments, with shorelines or

watersheds still largely primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads.

Recreational river areas – Those rivers or sections of rivers that are readily accessible by road or railroad,

that may have some development along their shorelines, and that may have undergone some

impoundment or diversion in the past.

The Kiger Creek WSR is situated approximately three miles at its closest point to the Echanis Wind Energy

Project. Other WSRs that are more than five miles from the Analysis area include the Fish Creek WSR and

the Donner und Blitzen WSR (Little Blitzen River). All of these rivers have received a “wild” designation.

When a WSR is designated, there are three general main goals that guide management of designated river

segments. They include Free-Flowing Characteristics, Outstandingly Remarkable Values (ORVs), and Wild

Classification.

The conservation of free-flowing characteristics assures that the river is free from man-made obstructions and

impoundments such as those used for irrigation and/or hydropower. ORVs refer to the specific values in the

scenic, geologic, recreational, fisheries, wildlife, cultural, and historic resources that are present within the

WSR. Lastly, wild classification relates to those characteristics that support a river’s designation as being

“wild”. The Kiger Creek WSR is considered wild and is generally inaccessible except by trail, with

watersheds and shorelines that are primitive, and waters that are not polluted.

In general, the ORVs present within the Kiger Creek WSR consist of exceptional scenic values that include a

diversity of landforms, varying vegetation patterns that change with canyon elevations, and viewsheds that are

largely untouched and in a natural condition. Opportunities for primitive recreation and solitude are also

present at Kiger Creek WSR along with excellent fish resources. Geologic features include a moderate to

deep glaciated gorge that has exposed layers of Steens Basalt. The Kiger Creek WSR also features a variety

of wildlife that includes bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, as well as pronghorn antelope in addition to unique

assemblages of vegetative communities.

The Kiger Creek WSR is also situated in the Steens Mountain Wilderness. The Steens Act mandated that

where management requirements differ between the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and the Wilderness Act, the

more restrictive requirements shall apply. In general, the protection of wilderness resources is more

restrictive than those for WSRs with a Wild River designation. Furthermore, the protection of wilderness

resources and character would provide adequate protection for ORVs within WSR corridors. The three WSRs

closest to the Analysis area, therefore, would be largely protected by the management principles found within

the Steens Mountain Wilderness (USDI 2004).

3.13.2.2 Steens Mountain Wilderness Area

Legislation, Management Objectives, and Values

With the signing of the Wilderness Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-577) a process for delineating and protecting

public lands that retained wilderness characteristics was established. In 2000, Congress passed the Steens Act

designating the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Area (CMPA) which included the

Steens Mountain Wilderness. In addition to the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Steens Mountain Wilderness is

managed according to the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA), BLM Manuals 8560/H-8560-

1 (Management of Designated Wilderness Areas), and 8561 (Wilderness Management Plans); BLM’s

Wilderness Management Regulations at 43 CFR Part 6300; and the specific directives contained within the


3.13-4

Steens Act. The Steens Mountain Wilderness represents the only formally designated Wilderness Area

located in close proximity to the proposed project and its alternatives.

Wilderness values, including those present in the Steens Mountain Wilderness, are outlined in section 2(c) of

the Wilderness Act and are broken into several categories including naturalness, opportunities for solitude,

primitive and unconfined recreation, and supplemental values which may include values associated with

ecological, geological, or other features of scientific, education, scenic, or historic importance. Naturalness

refers to an area which “generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature, with the

imprint of man’s work substantially unnoticeable” (BLM Manual 8560). The Steens Mountain Wilderness is

generally considered to be in a natural condition except for areas containing certain human-made elements

(USDI 2004).

Opportunities for solitude within the Steens Mountain Wilderness are plentiful as the area features a varied

and rugged topography as well as vegetated creek and canyon bottoms that enhance the experience of

seclusion and remoteness. There is also an outstanding opportunity throughout the Steens Mountain

Wilderness for primitive and unconfined recreation which includes hiking, backpacking, camping, horseback

riding, hunting, fishing, photography, and sightseeing. Supplemental values of the Wilderness include

geology, scenery, vegetation, wildlife, and historic. Management within the Wilderness is centered on the

protection of naturalness and wildness while providing for public use and primitive recreation in a manner

that would leave wilderness unimpaired for future use.

The nearest point of the Steens Mountain Wilderness is situated approximately 1.5 miles to the south of the

Echanis Wind Energy Project. Neither the proposed project nor any project alternatives would bisect or cross

Steens Mountain Wilderness.

3.13.2.3 Wilderness Study Areas

Legislation, Management Objectives, and Values

Wilderness Study Areas are managed in a manner consistent with BLM’s WSA IMP (USDI 1995), FLPMA,

as well as the Wilderness Act of 1964 (Public Law 85-577). Preservation of wilderness values is the

“overriding consideration” of WSA management and WSAs are to be managed under the WSA IMP until

Congress makes a determination regarding wilderness designation. The general standard for interim

management is that land under wilderness review must be managed so as not to impair suitability for

preservation as wilderness. Wilderness characteristics and values must, therefore, be protected and enhanced

in all WSA’s.

The initial task of identifying areas suitable for wilderness preservation in the State of Oregon has been

completed as mandated in FLPMA section 603 and is documented in BLM 1989 Oregon Final Wilderness

EIS and the Wilderness Study Report for Oregon (USDI 1991). As currently proposed, none of the action

alternatives would be located on lands classified as a WSA. Project facilities associated with the Echanis

Wind Energy Project and the southernmost portions of Alternative B (including route options) and Alternative

C, would be within five miles of five WSAs: Lower Stonehouse WSA, Stonehouse WSA, High Steens WSA,

West Peak WSA, and Heath Lake WSA.

The degrees of naturalness in these WSAs range from having an outstanding natural condition (High Steens

WSA) to a relatively natural condition (Lower Stonehouse WSA). The WSA’s closest to the project also

offer outstanding opportunities for solitude with vegetation and topographic variation providing the principal

forms of screening. Opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation that includes day hiking,

backpacking, camping, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, sightseeing and photography are also in many


3.13-5

cases outstanding. Special features of the WSAs include geology, botanical, vegetation, wildlife, cultural

resources, and scenic qualities generally enhance and contribute to wilderness values in each of the WSAs.

3.13.3 Environmental Consequences and Mitigation

The proposed action alternatives analyzed below (including transmission line route options, design options,

and access roads) would require ROW grants from BLM and USFWS, and easements from approximately 10

to 30 property owners (depending on alternative) to construct transmission lines and access roads across

private lands. For all action alternatives, the permanent ROW width would be 150 feet. A 40-foot wide

ROW would be required on public lands to accommodate new and improved access roads.

Transmission line poles would range in height from 70 to 80 feet with three sets of cross arms that extend

approximately 10 to11 feet horizontally. Taller poles would be erected on either side of the Blitzen Valley

where the transmission line would cross the MNWR. At this location, poles up to 130 feet tall would be

secured to concrete footings embedded in rim rock on land administered by the BLM. The distance between

the two poles would be more than 1,400 feet allowing the line to completely span the MNWR.

The 40 to 69 wind turbines on the Echanis Wind Energy Project site would vary in height from 213 to 262

feet. The towers including the wind rotors at the 12-o’clock position would be approximately 415 feet tall.

The exterior of the tower would have a smooth surface. Potential project effects to values inherent to the

Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, WSAs, and WSRs would include construction impacts such as noise and

dust from construction equipment, noise from wind turbines and transmission lines, visual effects from

Project facilities.

The potential short- and long-term effects of the proposed project on the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area,

WSAs, and WSRs are described below. For the purposes of this analysis, short term effects relate to

construction activities related to Alternative B (five months), Alternative C (six months), and the Echanis

Wind Energy Project (9 to 12 months). Long term effects relate the operational effects associated with the

Echanis Wind Energy Project and Alternatives B or Alternative C. For all of these project components, the

long term effects would anticipate a 40 year span.

3.13.3.1 Alternative A – No Action

Under the No Action alternative, no new transmission lines, substations, interconnection stations, or the

Echanis Wind Energy Project, would be constructed. Improvements to existing access roads would not be

needed and new access roads would not be constructed. No new ROW would be obtained from BLM or

USFWS, and the Echanis site would remain undeveloped and continue to be used for livestock grazing. Land

use and development on private parcels near WSRs, the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, and WSAs would

continue consistent with Harney County zoning regulations.

3.13.3.2 Project Effects Common to All Action Alternatives

Project effects to the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, WSAs, and WSRs would be identical for all of the

action alternatives. For the purposes of this section, the Analysis area is limited to the area within a five mile

radius viewshed of project facilities and which encompasses the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, WSAs,

and WSRs. This area includes the portion of the transmission line route and wind turbines that are common

to all alternatives. The transmission line route alternatives and route options that lie beyond the five mile

radius were not analyzed because neither the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area nor any WSAs and WSRs are

not located within five miles of those sections of Project Alternatives B and C. This section, therefore,

analyzes project impacts to the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, five WSAs, and one WSR that fall within

the boundaries of the Analysis area, as defined by the five mile radius viewshed (Figures 3.13-1 through 3.13-

5).


3.13-6

Figure 3.13-1 Echanis Project Viewshed Analysis.


3.13-7

Figure 3.13-2 West Ridge Viewshed Analysis.


3.13-8

Figure 3.13-3 East Ridge Viewshed Analysis.


3.13-9

Figure 3.13-4 Riddle Mountain Viewshed Analysis.


3.13-10

Figure 3.13-5 Transmission Line Viewshed Analysis.


3.13-11

Wild and Scenic Rivers

PERMANENT EFFECTS

Under all of the action alternatives, potential effects to WSRs would be from the introduction of man-made

structures that would impair views and generate noise during operation. Figures 3.13-1 and 3.13-2 show that

the only WSR situated within the five mile Analysis area is the Kiger Creek WSR. Located over 2 miles from

the southern tip of the Echanis Wind Energy Project, the lands situated within the Kiger Creek WSR would

not be affected by project operation noise and would not have views of operating wind turbines. The noise

analysis included in Section 3.17 reveals that construction related and operation-related noise at this distance

from the Project may exceed ambient levels (ambient = 26 dBA), but due to screening topography and the

distance from the noise sources, noise levels would fall below the 46 dBA level that would require mitigation

for sensitive receptors.

Figure 3.13-1 indicates that topographic screening, namely the walls of the Kiger Gorge would preclude

views of the Echanis wind turbines from areas within the boundary of WSR designated lands. Figure 3.13-2

illustrates that 37.9 acres or 2.7 percent of the total 1,420 acre Kiger Creek WSR would have background

views of the transmission line where it would cross private and public lands. Due to the approximately six

mile distance of the transmission line from the Kiger Creek WSR, the effects on views within the Kiger Creek

WSR would be minimal as the transmission lines would appear in the background.

Since no Project facilities would be constructed within the Kiger Creek WSR, none of the Project action

alternatives would impair the free-flowing characteristics of Kiger Creek or affect the scenic, geologic,

recreational, fish, wildlife, vegetation and botanical, cultural, or historic ORVs specific to these WSR

designated lands. Lastly, none of the Alternative Actions would affect the characteristics that support the

designation of the Kiger Creek WSR as being “wild.”

TEMPORARY EFFECTS

Due to the distance of the Kiger Creek WSR from areas of construction, and the presence of screening

topography, temporary effects to the Kiger Creek WSR’s free-flowing characteristics, ORVs, and “wild”

characteristics would not occur. According to Section 3.17, construction related noise levels could potentially

rise above ambient levels, but due to the presence of screening topography and the distance between potential

noise sources and the WSR, these effects would not require mitigation. In addition, Figures 3.13-1 and 3.13-2

indicate that screening topography would preclude views of construction-related activities.

Steens Mountain Wilderness Area

PERMANENT EFFECTS

NATURALNESS

The Steens Mountain Wilderness Area generally retains its natural condition. The Project is situated

approximately 1.5 miles from the Steens Mountain Wilderness. As shown in Figures 3.13-1 and

3.13-2, the project would be visible from portions of the northernmost part of the Steens Mountain

Wilderness. No Project facilities, however, would be located within the Wilderness Area and thus

would not affect its natural condition.

SOLITUDE

Opportunities for solitude within the Steens Mountain Wilderness are plentiful. The area features a varied

and rugged topography, including vegetated creek and canyon bottoms that enhance the experience of


3.13-12

seclusion and remoteness. As described above, the Project would be visible from portions of the

northernmost part of the Steens Mountain Wilderness. Some project operation noise may exceed ambient

noise levels in the Wilderness (ambient = 26 dBA) (See Section 3.19). However, noise levels would not rise

to levels that would require mitigation for sensitive receptors under OEQC standards (beyond 36 dBA).

This portion of the Steens Mountain Wilderness is generally frequented by visitors who travel off main trails

as it features steep topography, a lack of trails, and proximity to private property; therefore enhancing

opportunities for solitude. Based on the GIS viewshed analysis, approximately 668 acres (0.4 percent) of the

Steens Wilderness Area would have foreground to middleground views of the Echanis Wind Energy Project,

while approximately 822 acres (0.5 percent) of the Wilderness Area would have foreground to middleground

views of the transmission line (Figure 3.13-1 and Figure 3.13-2). Of the acreage noted above, approximately

470.8 acres within the Steens Mountain Wilderness would have views of both the wind turbines on the

Echanis site as well as the transmission line. Opportunities for solitude on those parts of the Steens Mountain

Wilderness that would have views of the Project would be diminished.

PRIMITIVE AND UNCONFINED RECREATION

Access to primitive and unconfined recreation would not be affected by Project construction or Project

operation. No road closures are planned for the Echanis Wind Energy Project that would prevent the public

from accessing recreation areas. During project operation, noise generated by the wind turbines could

potentially rise above the ambient noise levels within the northeastern most portion of the Steens Mountain

Wilderness. The ambient noise level throughout the analysis area is assumed to be 26 decibels(dBA) and the

level where mitigation is required for sensitive receptors is 36 dBA. Due to distance from the noise source

and changes in topography, noise levels within the Steens Mountain Wilderness, would not rise to levels that

require mitigation for sensitive receptors (See Section 3.17). Project construction and operation would be

visible from the Steens Mountain Wilderness, but the visibility of these project activities would not diminish

or restrict opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation.

SUPPLEMENTAL VALUES

No effects to supplemental values embodied within the Steens Mountain Wilderness are anticipated. The 1.5

mile distance from the southernmost turbine of the Echanis Wind Energy Project to the boundary of the

Wilderness Area precludes the possibility of effects to the unique geology of the Wilderness area. The

Project would affect the scenery that is located outside of the Wilderness Area, but would not affect the

scenery within the Wilderness Area itself. Effects to vegetation, habitat, and wildlife are anticipated in the

Analysis area, but not within the Wilderness Area (See Section 3.5). The potential for effects to historic

properties exists within the Analysis area, but not within the Steens Mountain Wilderness (See Section 3.11).

TEMPORARY EFFECTS

Temporary construction effects to wilderness area values are not expected. The naturalness of the Steens

Mountain Wilderness would not be affected as no project facilities would be located on Wilderness Area

properties. The northeastern most portion of the Wilderness Area would have limited views of the

construction of the project, but due to the steep topography, limited access routes, and proximity to private

property, effects to solitude are not expected. Solitude within the Wilderness Area would not be affected by

construction related noise, which is not expected to rise above ambient levels within the Wilderness Area. No

roads are expected to be closed during project construction, thus there would be no effects to primitive and

unconfined recreation. Lastly, effects to supplemental values of the Steens Mountain Wilderness from Project

construction are not anticipated.

The Project’s temporary effects caused by construction, construction-related activities, and maintenance

would not affect the unique geology of the Wilderness. The Project’s construction would affect the scenery

outside of the Wilderness, but would not affect the scenery within the Wilderness. Impacts from construction


3.13-13

to vegetation, habitat, and wildlife are anticipated within the Analysis area, but not within the Steens

Mountain Wilderness Area (See Section 3.5). Potential for effects to historic properties exists within the

Analysis area, but not within the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area (See Section 3.11). To minimize effects

to wilderness values, the applicant would comply with the conditions of approval related to visual resources

set forth in Exhibit B to the Harney County Conditional Use Permit No. 07-14 issued on April 18, 2007, and

revised on May 21, 2008.

Wilderness Study Areas

PERMANENT EFFECTS

NATURALNESS

The High Steens WSA, Lower Stonehouse WSA, Stonehouse WSA, Heath Lake WSA, and West Peak WSA

are all located within a five mile radius of the Analysis area. In general, these WSAs retain their natural

condition; existing manmade intrusions are minimal and only modestly noticeable. Project features on the

Echanis site would be visible from portions of all five of the WSAs. Wind turbines would be located within a

few hundred meters of the Lower Stonehouse WSA, about 0.5 mile from the High Steens WSA, about 3.0

miles from the West Peak WSA, 4.0 miles from the Stonehouse WSA, and 4.5 miles from the Heath Lake

WSA. The wind turbines would be most visible from the Lower Stonehouse WSA, which abuts the eastern

boundary of the Echanis site. No Project facilities would be constructed within any of these WSAs and thus

all of the WSAs would retain their naturalness values.

SOLITUDE

Opportunities for solitude within four of the five WSAs (with the Lower Stonehouse WSA as the exception)

are generally plentiful as the area features a varied and rugged topography as well as vegetated creek and

canyon bottoms that enhance the experience of seclusion and remoteness. Due to the distance from wind

turbines and the beneficial effect of topographic screening, noise from the Project operations would not

exceed ambient noise levels in the West Peak WSA, Heath Lake WSA, or the Stonehouse WSA (See Section

3.17). Noise would exceed ambient noise levels in the High Steens WSA, but would be below state standards

that require mitigation (below 36 dBA). Noise levels on the Lower Stonehouse WSA, however, would

exceed ambient levels and OEQC standards, due to the close proximity of the wind turbines (See Section

3.17). It should be noted that the December 1989 Oregon Wilderness EIS states that the Lower Stonehouse

WSA would support only a limited number of users. The effects to solitude have been diminished further

since the 1989 Wilderness EIS from past wildland fires and upgrading of the East Steens Road. A majority of

the eastern portion of the WSA can be seen from the East Steens Road.

Excessive noise on the Lower Stonehouse WSA would further diminish the already limited opportunities for

solitude, making it difficult for a visitor to find seclusion and isolation from the developed world. The effect

on a visitor’s desired experience would vary with each individual. For some visitors who travel off main

trails, the disruption of quiet and solitude would be short term and fleeting as they move through the area.

There are no improved recreational areas in the Lower Stonehouse WSA and therefore long term effects to

visitors are not anticipated. Exhibit B to the Harney County Conditional Use Permit (20070853) issued to

CEP for the Echanis Project on April 18, 2007 includes a requirement that the project comply with applicable

noise standards. This requirement would apply to the noise levels on the Lower Stonehouse WSA described

above.

As shown in Figures 3.13-1 and 3.13-2, the Project would be visible from within all five of the WSAs. Table

3.13-1 reflects the respective acreages of areas within the five WSAs that would have views of the project in

the foreground to middleground area. Notable visual effects would occur within the West Peak WSA, Lower

Stonehouse WSA, and High Steens WSA. The visibility of wind turbines from these three WSAs would


3.13-14

diminish opportunities for solitude, making it difficult for a visitor traveling through these areas to find

seclusion and isolation from the developed world.

Table 3.13-1 Acres of WSAs with Views of Echanis Wind Turbines and Transmission Lines

Names of WSA Acres of WSA with Views of Wind Turbines

(% of total WSA)

Acres of WSAs with Views of Transmission Lines

(% of total WSA)

Heath Lake WSA 64.7 (0.3%) 0

High Steens WSA 924.2 (6.6%) 183.0 (1.3%)

Lower Stonehouse WSA 4646.1 (62.4%) 342.5 (4.6%)

Stonehouse WSA 765.6 (3.4%) 0

West Peak WSA 1261.5 (14.7%) 0

Assumptions: 10 DEM; wind tower and blade height total = 126 meters (415 ft); transmission tower heights = 24 meters (80 ft); 360 degree viewshed.

PRIMITIVE AND UNCONFINED RECREATION

Primitive and Unconfined Recreation is contingent upon nonmotorized and undeveloped types of outdoor

recreation activities and generally refers to wilderness recreation opportunities such as nature study, hiking,

photography, backpacking, fishing, hunting, and other related activities. As currently proposed, the Echanis

Wind Energy Project does not propose closure of any roads that would affect existing opportunities for

primitive and unconfined recreation in any of the WSAs. During project operation, noise from wind turbines

would exceed ambient levels and OEQC standards within the southern portion of the Lower Stonehouse WSA

and would require mitigation for sensitive receptors. Project operation noise that extends into the High Steens

WSA would also exceed ambient levels but would not require mitigation (See Section 3.17) because noise

levels would not exceed the threshold for mitigation for sensitive receptors as noted in Section 3.17 (above 36

dBA). Excessive noise would diminish opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation in the Lower

Stonehouse WSA. Primitive campsites situated along Stonehouse Creek would not be affected by noise

effects due to their distance (about 3 miles) from the turbines and their sheltered position within a canyon. To

minimize effects of noise, the applicant would comply with the conditions of approval related to noise set

forth in Exhibit B to the Harney County Conditional Use Permit No. 07-14 issued on April 18, 2007, and

revised May 21, 2008.

As illustrated in Figures 3.13-1 and 3.13-2, the Project would be visible from within all five of the WSAs.

Project visibility, however, would not affect the opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation within

the WSAs. Opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation would still exist in all WSAs and no

project-related facilities would visibly obstruct, preclude or impair access to these forms of recreation.

SUPPLEMENTAL VALUES

In general, supplemental wilderness values present in the five WSAs include geology, botanical, vegetation,

wildlife, cultural resources, and scenic qualities. Each of these values generally enhance and contribute to

each of the WSAs wilderness values. The east rim of Steens Mountain, which is situated within the Lower

Stonehouse WSA, High Steens WSA, and Stonehouse WSA provides spectacular scenic values with views of

the surrounding area, including Alvord Basin and Sheepshead Mountains. The views atop the rim looking

east would not be affected. West facing views would be affected by the close proximity of the wind turbines

on the Echanis site, particularly in the Lower Stonehouse WSA.

Due to the proximity of the project to the Lower Stonehouse WSA, there would be effects to scenery that lies

just beyond the WSA’s western border on private property. To minimize effects to the scenic values that lie

beyond the Lower Stonehouse WSA’s western border, the applicant would comply with the conditions of


3.13-15

approval related to visual resources set forth in Exhibit B to the Harney County Conditional Use Permit No.

07-14 issued on April 18, 2007, and revised on May 21, 2008.

The High Steens WSA, West Peak WSA, Heath Lake WSA, and Stonehouse WSA would have views of the

Project. The areas with views of the project are not served by any BLM designated trails and therefore would

only affect visitors who recreate off main trails or who use cattle trails. The project, therefore, would affect

the scenic characteristics that extend beyond the boundaries of these WSAs. Effects to vegetation, habitat,

and wildlife are anticipated in the Analysis area, but not within any of the WSAs (See Section 3.5). The

potential for effects to historic properties exists within the Analysis area, but not within the WSAs (See

Section 3.10).

TEMPORARY EFFECTS

Temporary construction effects to wilderness values are only expected within the Lower Stonehouse WSA

and High Steens WSA, which are located immediately east of a proposed string of turbines on the Echanis

site and about 0.5 mile south of the southernmost turbine, respectively. The naturalness of these two WSAs

would not be affected as no Project-related construction would occur on WSA properties, thereby not

affecting the natural condition of these areas.

The Lower Stonehouse WSA would have unobstructed views of Project-related construction activities and

would be subject to Project related noise in excess of ambient noise levels (above 26 dBA) (See Section 3.17).

Excessive noise would diminish opportunities for solitude, making it difficult for a visitor to find seclusion

and isolation from the developed world. In addition, periodic maintenance activities that would occur along

the string of turbines closest to the Stonehouse WSA could also affect experiences of solitude within the

Stonehouse WSA. The effects on a visitor’s desired experience would vary with each individual. For some

visitors, the disruption of quiet and solitude would be short term and fleeting as they move through the area.

The effect would be greater for visitors who stay in the affected area for a longer period.

Opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation within the Lower Stonehouse WSA and High Steens

WSA, would be affected by Project construction noise. To minimize effects of noise, the applicant would

comply with the conditions of approval related to noise set forth in Exhibit B to the Harney County

Conditional Use Permit No. 07-14 issued on April 18, 2007, and revised on May 21, 2008.

Primitive campsites situated along Stonehouse Creek would not be affected by noise due to their distance

(about three miles) from the turbines and their sheltered position within a canyon. No roads are proposed for

closure during Project construction and thus would not limit access to primitive and unconfined recreation.

The Project’s temporary effects caused by construction, construction-related activities, and maintenance

would not affect the unique geology of any of the WSAs due to the lack of construction-related activities

within the WSAs.

The Project’s construction would affect the scenery outside of the High Steens WSA and Lower Stonehouse

WSA, but would not affect the scenery within any of the WSAs. To minimize effects to wilderness values,

the applicant would comply with the conditions of approval related to visual resources set forth in Exhibit B

to the Harney County Conditional Use Permit No. 07-14 issued on April 18, 2007, and revised on May 21,

2008. Effects from construction to vegetation, habitat, and wildlife are anticipated in the Analysis area, but

not within the Wilderness area (See Section 3.5). Potential for effects to historic properties exists within the

Analysis area, but not within the Wilderness Study Area (See Section 3.11).

MITIGATION

No additional mitigation, beyond the PDFs and BMPs listed in Appendix A, is proposed to address the noise

and visual changes that could affect the wilderness values of solitude and primitive and unconfined recreation

in the Lower Stonehouse WSA and High Steens WSA.


3.13-16

3.13.3.3 Light Pollution and Glare

While the 1989 Oregon Wilderness EIS does not specifically identify the nighttime sky as a characteristic of

the Steens Mountain Wilderness, WSAs, or WSRs in the Analysis area, the lack of manmade light in the area

make it an ideal location for observing the nighttime sky. Some visitors come to the area to engage in

stargazing activities. The Project may affect these activities. Effects from Project-related light pollution and

glare are discussed in more detail in Section 3.9 Visual Resources.

3.13.3.4 Residual Effects after Mitigation

The Lower Stonehouse WSA would have unobstructed views of project-related construction activities and

would be subject to project related noise in excess of ambient noise levels. In addition, maintenance activities

for turbines could affect experiences of solitude in this area. Residual effects that would last at least as long

as the life of the project (an expected 40 years) would include effects on a visitor’s desired experience. For

some visitors, the disruption of quiet and solitude would be short term and fleeting as they move through the

area. The effect would be greater for visitors who stay in the affected area for a longer period.

3.13.3.5 Summary Comparison of Alternatives

The effects on Wilderness, WSAs and WSRs from development of the Echanis Project and each transmission

line alternative are summarized in Table 3.13-2. The table includes the effect to Wilderness, WSAs and

WSRs along the main access road to the Echanis site, in addition to effects from each transmission line

alternative.


3.13-17

Table 3.13-2 Summary of Effects - Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, Wilderness Study Areas, and Wild and Scenic Rivers

Alternative A – No Action Echanis Wind Energy Project

Alternative B – West Route

South Diamond Lane Route Option

Hog Wallow Route Option

Alternative C – North Route

No new transmission lines, substations, interconnection stations, or the Echanis Wind Energy Project, would be constructed.

Improvements to existing access roads would not be needed and new access roads would not be constructed.

No new ROW would be obtained from BLM or USFWS, and the Echanis site would remain undeveloped and continue to be used for livestock grazing.

Land use and development on private parcels near WSRs, the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, and WSAs would continue consistent with Harney County zoning regulations.

The Project is situated approximately 1.5 miles from the Steens Mountain Wilderness, and approximately 668 acres (0.4%) of the Steens Wilderness Area would have fore- to middle-ground views of the Project where opportunities for solitude would be diminished.

No project facilities would be located within the Steens Mountain Wilderness.

During construction, the northeastern most portion of the Wilderness Area would have limited views of the construction of the project, but due to the steep topography, limited access routes, and proximity to private property, effects to solitude are not expected.

Wind turbines would be located within a few hundred meters of the Lower Stonehouse WSA, about 0.5 miles from the High Steens WSA, 3.0 miles from the West Peak WSA, 4.0 miles from the Stonehouse WSA, and 4.5 miles from the Heath Lake WSA. Project features would be visible from portions of all 5 of these WSAs.

Opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation would still exist in all WSAs, no facilities would impair access to these forms of recreation, and no project facilities would be constructed within any WSAs so that all would retain their naturalness values.

During operations, noise from wind turbines would exceed ambient levels within the southern portion of the Lower Stonehouse WSA and would diminish opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation.

During construction, the Lower Stonehouse WSA would have unobstructed views of project-related construction activities and would be subject to project related noise in excess of ambient noise levels. In addition, maintenance activities for turbines could affect experiences of solitude in this area.

Approximately 37.9 acres or 2.7% of the total 1,420 acre Kiger Creek WSR would have background views of the transmission line where it would cross private and public lands, but effects would be minimal.

No Wilderness Areas, WSAs, and WSR’s are located within five miles of the northern portions of the transmission line alternatives located to the north of the analysis area. However, one Wilderness Area, five WSAs, and one WSR’s do fall within the boundaries of the analysis area, as defined by the five mile radius viewshed.

Approximately 822 acres (0.5%) of the Wilderness Area would have foreground to middleground views of the transmission line. Opportunities for solitude on those parts of the Steens Mountain Wilderness that would have views of the Project would be diminished.

No project facilities would be located within the Steens Mountain Wilderness.

Opportunities for primitive and unconfined recreation would still exist in all WSAs, no facilities would impair access to these forms of recreation, and no project facilities would be constructed within any WSAs so that all would retain their naturalness values.

Project effects to the Steens Mountain Wilderness Area, WSAs, and WSRs would be the same as for Alternative B – West Route.




3.13-18

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

3.13 STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, … STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS AND ... with...

Documents

Transcript of 3.13 STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, … STEENS MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS, WILDERNESS STUDY AREAS AND ... with...